Terms of Service

The terms and hospital rules that apply to every patient and visitor at Light of Life Sub-Acute Hospital.

Latest version available at reception

1. Admission and registration

All patients must provide a valid ID, medical aid card (if applicable) and contact details on admission. Information provided must be true and accurate. Patients under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. In emergencies, treatment will not be delayed due to lack of documentation.

2. Consent to treatment

By being admitted, you consent to routine medical examination, nursing care and treatment as prescribed by your doctor. For major procedures, surgeries and anaesthesia, separate informed consent forms will be explained to you and must be signed. You have the right to refuse treatment after the risks have been explained, but must sign a refusal form.

3. Medical aid and payment

• Private patients: the full estimated amount may be required as a deposit before admission.
• Medical aid patients: authorisation is the patient's responsibility. If the medical aid declines, the patient is liable for the full account.
• All accounts are payable within 30 days of discharge.
• Interest may be charged on overdue accounts.
• The hospital reserves the right to require a payment guarantee.

4. Fees and charges

Hospital fees include accommodation, nursing care, equipment and consumables. Doctor's fees, anaesthetist, radiology and pathology are billed separately. Quotations are estimates only — the final bill may vary based on actual treatment and length of stay.

5. Visiting hours and conduct

Visiting hours: 11h00–12h00, 15h00–16h00 and 19h00–20h00. Only 2 visitors per patient at a time. Children under 12 are not allowed in wards unless authorised. Visitors must respect privacy, keep noise low and not bring outside food without permission. Smoking, alcohol and illegal substances are strictly prohibited on the premises.

6. Patient responsibilities

Provide an accurate medical history, allergies and current medication. Follow your doctor's instructions and the hospital rules. Treat staff and other patients with respect. Take responsibility for personal valuables — the hospital is not liable for loss. Keep the ward clean and do not interfere with medical equipment.

7. Privacy and CCTV

Your personal and medical information is protected under POPIA and kept confidential. By entering the premises, you consent to CCTV monitoring for crime prevention, detection, training and public safety, as set out in our Privacy Notice displayed at the entrance. CCTV footage is retained for 30 days. Contact the Hospital Manager on 015 516 8090 for privacy queries.

8. Discharge

Discharge time is before 11h00. Patients must ensure they have transport, medication and discharge instructions. Certificates and reports must be requested before discharge. The hospital is not responsible for complications arising from early discharge against medical advice.

9. Personal belongings and valuables

Patients are advised not to bring valuables. The hospital provides a safe for small items, used at the patient's own risk. The hospital, its staff and management are not liable for loss, theft or damage to personal property, including money, jewellery, cellphones and laptops.

10. Rights and responsibilities

Patient rights: dignified care, privacy, confidentiality, informed consent, the right to refuse treatment and the right to complain.

Patient responsibilities: provide accurate information, comply with the treatment plan, follow the rules, respect property and staff, and meet financial obligations.

11. Complaints procedure

If you have a complaint, please first speak to the Ward Sister, then the Hospital Manager on 015 516 8090. Formal complaints must be in writing. We aim to respond within 5 working days. You may also contact the Office of Health Standards Compliance.

12. Limitation of liability

While we strive for the highest standard of care, medicine is not an exact science. The hospital is not liable for adverse outcomes if the standard of care was followed. Doctors are independent practitioners — the hospital is not liable for their clinical decisions, except where they are employed by the hospital. The hospital is not liable for delays due to emergencies or circumstances beyond its control.

13. Rules for use of facilities

Patients and visitors may only use designated areas. No cooking in wards. No tampering with oxygen or electrical equipment. Wi-Fi is provided for reasonable use. Any damage to hospital property will be charged to the responsible person.

14. Infection control

Hand washing is required. Patients with infectious conditions may be isolated. Visitors with flu, cold or infectious symptoms should not visit. Follow all infection control notices.

15. Governing law

These Terms and Conditions are governed by the laws of the Republic of South Africa. Any dispute is subject to the jurisdiction of the courts in Limpopo. These terms may be updated — the latest version is available at reception.